SAN FRANCISCO Draymond Green, the second-rounder turned four-time NBA champion, tends to root for the underdog.

Imagine his delight in meeting a room full of autistic people, a crowd that has been underestimated, misunderstood, even outright ridiculed.

At an event in advance of Tuesdays Autism Acceptance Night at Chase Center, the four-time Golden State All-Star delivered what essentially was a two-hour pep talk last week. At the California Academy of Sciences, where Green kept things lively with nonstop monologue, he capped things off by telling the youth in attendance to ignore the doubters, as he once did.

Your disability is your superpower. Its what makes you different, Green said. If weve got something in this world that makes us different from the next person, then guess what? Hold on to it as tight as you can. Because who wants to be like the rest of these people? Youve got to be yourself, right?

It was a rare day off for Greens barbed wit. He knew from experience to zip it when it came to trash talk, even if he was lighthearted. In fact, his misdirected banter toward someone on the spectrum was one of the reasons he was at the science museum. In a way, he was making amends.

Anthony Ianni, who played with Green at Michigan State, once called him by far, the most sarcastic guy Ive ever played with. For Ianni, Greens edgy humor felt like constant torment. In and away from practices, Ianni told Green more than once to quit insulting him, to which Green spat back: If you cant take a joke, you shouldnt be here. Whenever Ianni got really annoyed, Green turned the dial a little higher in an effort to toughen him up.

What do you do? You needle more! the Warriors forward said, recounting the backstory for his crowd. Oh, hes mad? Im under his skin? Thats when you needle more.

Finally, during a memorable weight-room clash in 2011, Green cracked wise one too many times. Ianni got in his face and told him to shut the hell up.

Spartans strength coach Mike Vorkapich intervened. Desperate to defuse the situation, he essentially blurted out Iannis secret: He was on the autism spectrum. The disorder made it challenging for Ianni to distinguish what was a joke and what wasnt with sarcasm being a particularly difficult language to decipher.

Vork pulled me to the side, Green recounted, He said, Anthonys autistic. Its black or white for him. He doesnt see the gray area. He doesnt see the joke. So when you say those things to him, he thinks youre serious. It changed my entire view.

In an instant, Green went from being Iannis needler to being his ferocious protector. By summer practices, he was patiently pacing Ianni through his on-court assignments, having permanently swapped out his one-liners for genuine encouragement. You got this, A.I. Keep it going.

Ianni, in turn, educated him on what its like to live with a diagnosis of pervasive developmental disorder.

That was a secret that he and I shared, Green said. And he continued to teach me. As I continued to learn, hes always been on me my entire career: Draymond, we need to do something with autism. You let me know when youre ready, and well do something.

And that is how the Warriors tempestuous enforcer ended up dodging butterflies and free-flying birds inside a domed rainforest last Thursday.

Green perused the exhibits with 30 members of the autistic community. The Athletic tagged along, too, as Green stayed 45 minutes beyond his scheduled time and kept the conversations rolling even as a soft automated voice repeatedly told visitors that the museum was closing.

When two aspiring filmmakers with autism, Jabari Daniels and Ronald Hicks, approached Green to explain their next cinematic project, Green quickly agreed to be part of it so long as he could play himself and later told them to aim for the stars.

Jabari, were gonna make a film. And why cant your film win an Oscar? Why cant your film win an Emmy? Because you have a disability? Thats what theyre going to tell you, Green said. But its up to you whether to believe that or not. If you believe it, then guess what? Youre going to be exactly what they say. But if you dont believe it, then guess what you can be?

Daniels smiled as he awaited the answer. He and Hicks were from Inclusion Films, which was started in 2007 by veteran filmmaker Joey Travolta (Johns brother) to teach movie-making to individuals with developmental disabilities.

You can be much bigger than Draymond Green became at basketball. Much bigger, Green continued. So, chase after your dream.

Ianni, now 34, flew into San Francisco for the festivities. He lives in Livonia, Michigan, and serves as a motivational speaker and author. His book, Centered: Autism Basketball and One Athletes Dreams, detailed the aforementioned weight-room confrontation.

Seeing Draymond stepping up for autism awareness means a lot to me, Ianni said. To see what he did at the museum and the aquarium, and seeing how much he cares about that community it gets me emotional at times.

Hes one of the top players defensive players in the league; he does not have to do this. Its not just him being a friend. Were doing it together because were brothers. And thats what Michigan State really taught us the most.

For the visit to the California Academy of Sciences, the museum provided participants with sensory kits designed to help guests with a variety of autism spectrum disorders or sensory sensitivities as a way of making them feel comfortable and safe.One young visitor slapped the railing in delight while watching an aquarium exhibit featuring a live flapnose ray. A move to the African penguin colony had cell phone cameras working in overdrive.

Still, not everyone navigated the terrain so effortlessly. The autism spectrum can include unusual responses to sensory stimuli. Kerry Rich kept an eye on his son, Joshua, 21, who sometimes sought out a quiet place in the corner and covered his eyes.

Thats a coping mechanism, Rich said. Thats like saying, Hey, thats too much input, and I have to kind of regulate. But if you really think about it, we all have sensory issues, right? Weve all had instances where we need to walk to a different part of the room and get away.

Joshuas journey was at the heart of the group that visited with Green. Participants were all part of a nonprofit organization called Joshuas Gift.

The boy was 2 years old when he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. After a few days of crying, Kerry and his wife, Mizpah Brown-Rich, reframed the situation entirely.

They decided their sons autism wasnt a disability; it was a treasure. They named their nonprofit after their son, and it focuses on the social, mental, emotional and economic needs of families living with autism.

Kids with autism are a gift in that theyre innocent. They wouldnt harm anyone, said Kerry, whose Warriors-loving family lives in Fremont, Calif. From our perspective, we look at it as God blessed us to take care of him because he knew we could. Josh is the gift that keeps giving.

Whats so interesting is that you see him there and you see some of these other kids. Theyre extremely intelligent. They cant all articulate like you and I. Some dont talk at all. But theyre very smart. They understand things. They just take a tremendous amount of patience.

Green now understands that thanks to the years of education from his old teammate. His interaction with a wide range of behaviors Thursday seemed to lift him up. One of basketballs most volatile technical-foul magnets was hardly recognizable in this forum.

Asked about the biggest misconception surrounding autism, Green echoed what Joshuas father said of the myth of a lack of intelligence.

I talked to a 13-year-old that taught me seven things that I didnt know, Green said, referring to Jett Geohegan. He walked with me pretty much the entire time. He just taught me seven random facts that I had no idea about. He was brilliant.

Green had one-on-one moments with the attendees, seeking out chances to say hello. One not-so-shy visitor, Dominic Deleon, approached him and said he watched the Warriors most recent game.

Howd I do? Green said.

You fell down, Deleon responded.

Would you help me back up if I fell down? Green asked.

No, Deleon said, smiling wide.

Why not? Green exclaimed.

From that, a friendship was born. Green and Deleon were in constant contact for much of the remainder of the afternoon. Green even gave Deleon a few shout-outs during his closing speech. All along, nobody smiled wider than Golden States veteran, the 2017 NBA Defensive Player of the Year.

I love children, and I love for people to feel good, Green said. We were blessed to be on this Earth, and I think everyone should feel good every day. If there is something that I can do or say to make someone feel better, I am all in. You dont know what these people have gone through. You get out in the world, people are very, very mean, and you just dont know what they say.

To have the opportunity to interact with these kids, I just want to make sure that they leave with a smile on their face. I want them to know that theres someone out here who cares about them and their well-being and believes in them and what they can do.

Green signed endless autographs on hats, T-shirts, basketballs, often from children making multiple returns through the line. He was happy to see them each time through. And he really did commit to doing a movie with Daniels and Hicks, pledging he would handle any chore as long as he could avoid screenwriting duties.

Youre writing and directing it, Green quipped to Hicks. Im just tagging along, hoping to get an A on the class group project.

The event closed with a moving speech, one where he vowed to continue educating myself, continue trying to raise awareness and educating others.

I just want to say thank you for the energy that you all bring, Green told the group. The joy that it brings to me, you will never understand. To walk in here and feel that energy and feel that love, I thank you all so much. Im with you on your journey. You wont see me every day, but know that you have a supporter in me.

(Top photo of Draymond Green and Dominic Deleon: Courtesy of the Golden State Warriors)

Read the original:
How the Warriors Draymond Green became a motivated autism activist - The Athletic

4 April 2023

Image source, Getty Images

Exeter's Jack Nowell (pictured), Sam Simmonds, Harry Williams and Luke Cowan-Dickie will play in France next season

Exeter centre Henry Slade says playing with his best mates for what might be the last time is a "massive motivation" before the Champions Cup quarter-final against Stormers.

The Chiefs squad will be broken up this summer, with a host of key players leaving the club.

Saturday's showdown at Sandy Park could be their last game together on the European stage.

"Some of my best mates, in life and in rugby, are in this team," Slade said.

Speaking on the Rugby Union Weekly podcast, the England international added: "They won't be here next year, and we have made a big point of sending those boys off on a high.

"You never know if we you will be able to play with them again, ever."

'We've had an unbelievable 10 years together'

Slade has spent much of the last decade at Exeter with the likes of Jack Nowell, Sam Simmonds, Harry Williams and Luke Cowan-Dickie, who are all on their way to France next season.

Together the homegrown core won the Premiership in 2017 as well as a Premiership and Champions Cup double in 2020.

"We've had an unbelievable 10 to 12 years playing for the Chiefs together, and to see some of these boys go is going to be sad, and it is going to be a different place next year," Slade said.

"But it is definitely a massive motivation to send those boys out having won something again.

"Obviously Saturday doesn't win it for us, but it puts us in a really good spot then.

"It is a massive game, but we want to send those boys out on a high and to do that we are going to have to beat a hell of a side in the Stormers on Saturday and it is a challenge we are all looking forward to."

Slade will be 'one of the old heads'

Slade says next season is going to be "strange" with seven of the 10 most experienced players at the club all leaving Sandy Park.

Only Slade, club captain Jack Yeandle and prop Alec Hepburn will remain.

"In the changing room there is an area reserved for the 10 highest-capped people. Next year, seven of the 10 are leaving," he explained.

"So it is going to be a bit of a change up that end of the changing room. I am going to be one of the old heads, and I don't like it!"

And Slade says the motivation of ending this dynasty of Exeter rugby in style is driving him on, after a mentally and physically draining Six Nations with England.

"I sort of said to [director of rugby] Rob [Baxter] I don't really want to have the time off now, because if I have the time off now I am potentially missing some of the biggest games of the season with some of my best mates who I may not ever get to play with again," Slade added.

"It made it quite easy to just get back in and crack on, because there are so many different motivating factors."

Original post:
Exeter Chiefs: Henry Slade says playing with mates for last time is "massive motivation" for quarter-final - BBC

The Chair of Sri Aurobindo at Pondicherry University seeks to formulate oriented degree programmes, diplomas, certificate courses, internships, webinars and workshops to contribute in the advancement of knowledge and propagate the message of Sri Aurobindo, with an emphasis on youth.

Addressing the Chairs inaugural seminar on Celebrating the life and Philosophy of Sri Aurobindo since it was established at the University in the 2022-23 academic session, Richa Tiwari, Chair of Sri Aurobindo, said the objectives also included designing short-term capacity-building programmes and inter-university and inter-collegiate post-graduate and research-level dialogues.

The event, which was held in collaboration with the Government of Puducherry and under the guidance of Ministry of Home Affairs, also featured the unveiling of photographs of Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator The Mother.

According to the Chair, efforts will be initiated to effect an inner re-engineering of the mind, body and spirit based on philosophy of life and social values of Sri Aurobindo in collaboration with all stakeholders.

B.B. Mohanty, dean, School of Social Sciences and International Studies, Pondicherry University, touched upon the multifaceted personality of Sri Aurobindo who was a poet, nationalist, philosopher and yogi. Sri Aurobindos philosophy of spirituality is not confined to a particular section of the society but addresses humanity as a whole, he said.

Rishita Gupta, Officer on Special Duty, Department of Rural Development, said the Chair was set up with the joint efforts of the Ministry of Home Affairs and enthusiasm of the Government of Puducherry to propagate the vision of Sri Aurobindos philosophy.

She urged the youth to not confine their experience of Sri Aurobindo to reading his voluminous and varied books but to imbibe the energy and spirit of his works.

Pradeep Narang, chairman of Sri Aurobindo Society, while lauding the establishment of the much-awaited Chair at Pondicherry University, stated that spirituality was a core value of Indian culture. These values can be restored in their original spirit through an understanding of Sri Aurobindos life and the legacy of his vast literature.

Gurmeet Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Pondicherry University suggested that the University itself could perhaps have been named after Sri Aurobindo.

The event also featured the launch of the book, Sri Aurobindo: An Extraordinary Phenomenon edited by V. Ananda Reddy and Larry Seidlitz.

A panel discussion led by Nanda Kishor, Department of Politics and International Studies, Beloo Mehra, Auro Bharati, Sri Aurobindo Society and Shiva Kumar, director, Sri Aurobindo Foundation for Integral Education and Research (SAFIER), and moderated by Priti Umamaheshwaram, SAFIER discussed Sri Aurobindos thoughts on new-world order and writings on Indian culture and integral education.

Excerpt from:
Sri Aurobindo Chair established at Pondicherry University to promote his teachings - The Hindu

Tamil Nadu Governor and chairman of the Auroville Foundation, R.N. Ravi, on Tuesday attributed the successful implementation of various programmes for the countrys sizeable population over the past decade to the alignment between the vision of the national leadership and the participation of the people, particularly the youth.

Addressing the Y20 youth summit, hosted in Auroville as part of Indias G20 presidency, Mr. Ravi said whether it was the accelerated financial inclusion drive that led to 500 million bank accounts, providing 30 million beneficiary-built homes or eliminating open defecation by providing sanitation, the success of these initiatives was driven by the involvement of the people, especially the youth.

The magic of the successful transformation was due to a shift from the incrementalism of past decades to an accelerated implementation through mass participation, he said. Noting that the theme of the G20 Summit One Earth. One Family. One Future reflected the Indian ethos of regarding the world as one family, Mr. Ravi said the nation was also setting an example to the world in addressing issues such as climate change by advocating green technologies and renewable energy. And, when India conducts an experiment in delivery of a programme with its 1.4 billion population, the success is regarded as replicable elsewhere in the world, he said. Envisaging a strident leadership role for the global youth going into the future to resolve the numerous crises besetting the world, Mr. Ravi said the Y20 was perhaps the most important engagement partner of the G20 summit, as it facilitated expression of a range of views far more comprehensive and diverse than the leaders of the governments alone could possibly come up with.

Even though the G20 grouping that represented 85% of the world GDP wielded considerable power and influence in tackling numerous crises and reshaping the destiny of the world making it in many ways more effective than even the United Nations, where the contemporary global leadership had a moral obligation to deliver a safe and sustainable earth, the youth of today had an existential stake in shaping the future, Mr. Ravi said.

Urging youth to take up deliberations of global challenges in all seriousness and reflect on the world they envisage as they would soon take up various positions of responsibility, not necessarily political roles, in society, Mr. Ravi hoped that the immersive experience they undergo in Auroville for the delegates would help contribute to Y20 formulations.

Noting that the Y20 summits inaugural coincided perfectly with the 113th anniversary of Sri Aurobindos arrival on the erstwhile Pondicherrys shores, Lt. Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, who is also a member of the Auroville Foundation governing board, urged the youth to cherish and constructively use their freedoms, which were a result of great sacrifices made by those from an earlier generation.

Ms. Soundararajan said Sri Aurobindo had taken the view that freedom should be built on the foundation of our countrys culture and the development. Far from condemning foreign culture, Sri Aurobindo, whose engagement with revolutionary poet Subramania Bharati marking a meeting of great minds that is a part of the citys legacy, favoured assimilation of its good aspects, she said.

Jayanti Ravi, Secretary, Auroville Foundation, who gave an overview of Auroville, said the universal township was envisioned as an experiment in human unity by The Mother, who was spiritual collaborator of Sri Aurobindo to reflect the ideals he propagated, and put into design by French architect Roger Anger.

Anirban Ganguly, Director of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Foundation and Indias official representative of India Youth20 (Y20), Nirima Oza, member, Auroville governing board and Divya Swapna Raj, founder of Womens League Foundation were among those who took part. About 150 youth, including international delegates and Aurovilians in the 18-30 age group, are participating in the three-day summit.

Excerpt from:
Mass participation driving the success of flagship programmes, says Tamil Nadu Governor - The Hindu

By Medha Chawla: The week you had been long waiting for is finally here. Hello, long weekend! You dont have turn up to work this Friday (thanks to Good Friday) and then the regular Saturday-Sunday chill drill follows. But why settle for just three days when you can make it four? Take a leave either on Thursday (April 6) or on Monday (April 10) and escape on a well-deserved vacation.

BTW, you dont have to fret over the vacation planning, as ChatGPT did it all for you! Yup, AI can also double up as your travel planner. All you have to do is choose from these amazing itineraries curated by ChatGPT.

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For Delhiites, ChatGPT has three superb trip suggestions for the impending long weekend Agra-Jaipur tour, Rishikesh-Haridwar tour and Shimla-Manali tour.

Agra and Jaipur Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: Early morning departure from Delhi to Agra (approximately a 3-hour drive). Visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. After lunch, drive to Jaipur (approximately a 5-hour drive). Check into your hotel in Jaipur and relax.

Day 2: Start your day early with a visit to the Amber Fort. After that, visit the Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar. In the evening, explore the local markets of Jaipur.

Day 3: Drive to Pushkar (approximately a 2.5-hour drive). Visit the famous Brahma Temple and Pushkar Lake. Later, return to Jaipur and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 4: Departure from Jaipur to Delhi (approximately a 5-hour drive).

Rishikesh and Haridwar Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: Depart from Delhi to Rishikesh (approximately a 6-hour drive). Check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan.

Day 2: Start your day with a yoga session. Visit the Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. Take a dip in the holy Ganges and visit the Triveni Ghat. In the evening, you can go for river rafting.

Day 3: Depart for Haridwar (approximately a 1-hour drive). Visit the Har Ki Pauri Ghat and attend the Ganga Aarti. Later, visit the Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple. Return to Rishikesh and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 4: Departure from Rishikesh to Delhi (approximately a 6-hour drive).

Shimla and Manali Tour:

Day 1: Depart from Delhi to Shimla (approximately an 8-hour drive). Check into your hotel and relax.

Day 2: Take a tour of Shimla and visit the Jakhu Temple, Christ Church, and the Mall Road. Later, drive to Kufri and visit the Himalayan Nature Park and Kufri Fun World. Return to Shimla and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 3: Depart for Manali (Approx a 7-hour drive). En route, visit the Kullu Shawl Factory and Vaishno Devi Temple. Check into your hotel in Manali and relax.

Day 4: Visit the Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, and the Tibetan Monastery. Later, visit the Solang Valley and enjoy adventure activities like paragliding and skiing. Return to Delhi in the evening (Approx a 12-hour drive).

If you are looking for a 4-day weekend trip from Mumbai, here are some ideas and suggested itineraries by ChatGPT:

Goa itinerary:

Goa is a popular destination for a weekend trip among Mumbaikars. You can explore beautiful beaches, water sports, nightlife and delicious seafood.

Day 1: Fly or drive to Goa. Check into your hotel or resort. Relax on the beach or explore the local markets

Day 2: Visit the famous beaches of North Goa, such as Baga, Anjuna, and Calangute. Enjoy water sports activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. Visit Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort with beautiful views of the Arabian Sea.

Day 3: Explore the churches and cathedrals of Old Goa, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral. Take a river cruise on the Mandovi River. Visit the local spice plantations and sample some of the local cuisine

Day 4: Spend the day relaxing on the beach or shopping for souvenirs. Fly or drive back to Mumbai

Mahabaleshwar itinerary:

Mahabaleshwar is a scenic hill station located in the Western Ghats, known for its breathtaking views, strawberry farms and trekking trails.

Day 1: Drive or take a bus to Mahabaleshwar. Check into your hotel or resort. Explore the local markets and sample some of the local cuisine

Day 2: Visit famous viewpoints like Arthur's Seat, Wilson Point, and Kate's Point for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Take a stroll through the scenic Venna Lake.

Day 3: Go trekking in the hills and forests of Mahabaleshwar. Visit the strawberry farms and pick some fresh strawberries. Relax at one of the many spas and wellness centers in Mahabaleshwar

Day 4: Visit the nearby Panchgani, a picturesque hill station with beautiful views and colonial-era bungalows. Fly or drive back to Mumbai. If you're based in Delhi and looking for a 4-day weekend trip, here are some ideas with itineraries:

Darjeeling and Kalimpong Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Take an early morning flight from Kolkata to Bagdogra. From Bagdogra, drive to Darjeeling (around 3 hours) and check into your hotel. Spend the day exploring the town, visiting attractions like the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and the Peace Pagoda.

Day 2: Wake up early to catch the sunrise from Tiger Hill, and then spend the day exploring more of Darjeeling, perhaps taking a stroll along the Mall Road and visiting the Happy Valley Tea Estate.

Day 3: After breakfast, drive to Kalimpong (around 2 hours). Visit the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang monastery, Deolo Hill, and the Cactus Nursery. In the evening, return to Darjeeling for the night.

Day 4: Depart Darjeeling and return to Bagdogra for your flight back to Kolkata.

Puri and Konark Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Take an early morning train from Kolkata to Puri (around 8 hours). Check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the beach and the Jagannath Temple.

Day 2: Visit the Konark Sun Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also visit the Ramachandi Temple and the Chandrabhaga Beach.

Day 3: Spend the day exploring Puri, including the beach, the Jagannath Temple, and the Puri Beach Market.

Day 4: Depart Puri and return to Kolkata by train.

Sundarbans National Park Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Take an early morning train from Kolkata to Canning (around 2 hours). From Canning, drive to Godkhali (around 1 hour) and board a boat to the Sundarbans. Spend the day exploring the mangroves and wildlife of the Sundarbans.

Day 2: Continue your exploration of the Sundarbans, visiting places like Sajnekhali Watch Tower and Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower.

Day 3: Visit the Dobanki Watch Tower and enjoy a nature walk. You can also visit the crocodile breeding farm and the Pirkhali Village.

Day 4: Depart the Sundarbans and return to Kolkata by train.

There are many exciting destinations within a short distance of Chennai that would make for a great 4-day weekend trip. Here's one itinerary that you could follow:

Day 1: Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry

Start early in the morning and drive to Mahabalipuram, which is about 60 km from Chennai. Explore the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and the Arjuna's Penance.

After that, head to Pondicherry, which is about 100 km from Mahabalipuram. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the French Quarter and the Promenade Beach.

Day 2: Pondicherry

Start the day with a visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and the nearby Auroville. Learn about the philosophy and teachings of Sri Aurobindo and explore the beautiful gardens and buildings of the ashram.

Spend the afternoon exploring the rest of Pondicherry, including the botanical gardens, the Bharati Park, and the Goubert Avenue.

Day 3: Kanchipuram and Vellore

Drive to Kanchipuram, which is about 70 km from Pondicherry. Kanchipuram is famous for its temples, so start by visiting the Kailasanathar Temple, the Ekambareswarar Temple, and the Varadaraja Perumal Temple.

After lunch, head to Vellore, which is about 70 km from Kanchipuram. Visit the Vellore Fort and the Jalakandeswarar Temple, which are both located within the fort.

Day 4: Chennai

Head back to Chennai and spend the day exploring the city's many attractions. Visit the Kapaleeswarar Temple, the Fort St. George, and the Government Museum. In the evening, head to Marina Beach for a sunset stroll.

(All the above-mentioned itineraries have been generated by ChatGPT)

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ChatGPT has your travel plans sorted for this long weekend. Check out the itineraries - India Today

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday said Akhand Bharat was the undisputed truth and a divided Bharat was a nightmare.

Mr. Bhagwat said the separated parts of Bharat would unite one day. The RSS chief said Pakistan was unhappy as it got separated from India, and it would, one day, be merged into Akhand Bharat.

I am not saying that India should attack Pakistan, but there will be a day when people will think of doing it. [becoming part of Akhand Bharat] And it will happen, Mr. Bhagwat said. He was speaking at a function in Bhopal to mark the birth anniversary of freedom fighter and revolutionary Hemu Kalani.

Speaking to the gathering of people hailing from the Sindhi community, Mr. Bhagwat said, When you were there, it was Bharat only. When you were asked to chose one Bharat, you left that Bharat to come to this Bharat ... If someone asks one day what that piece of land was before 1947, we have to tell that it was Bharat. He added that there was a time when that part of land used to witness recitation of the Vedas.

Mr. Bhagwat stressed that Indians had a target to rejoin all the parts of India that were divided in the past. A broken body cannot survive, it has to be fixed...We can leave that part of India but can never forget our relation which is attached with hearts, he added.

Also Read | India a Hindu Rashtra, Akhand Bharat will come true, says Yogi Adityanath

According to the RSS, Akhand Bharat is a concept of an undivided country with parts of present day Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Aksai Chin, Tibet and Bhutan in it.

Maintaining that the Partition of the country was artificial, Mr. Bhagwat said, One man was brought to divide us. He knew nothing and had only three months to do the task. When he was going back after completing the task, he said he wasnt an expert in the task and he knew nothing about how to go about it.

Quoting Sri Aurobindo, the RSS chief said that this (partition) had to go. He said that even people of Pakistan were saying that it was a mistake.

He said that the rigid people who got separated from India, leaving their tradition and culture, forgetting their ancestors, were unhappy since the beginning.

Those who left that land and came to India again stood on their feet with courage. They are not sad. Those who are in that land are unhappy because they are living an artificial life, he said.

Also Read | Minority community leaders urge RSS chief to speak more against attacks on Muslims

Everyone should adopt a true way of life and if a mistake has happened in the past, what is wrong in talking about correcting it, he said.

This is the reason why I ask you to be prepared. I dont know how and when it will happen, he said, adding that Indian culture taught people to give a befitting reply in self-defence.

Logo ke hi maan me aayega, ho jayega (people will only think about it and do it), Mr. Bhagwat said.

Excerpt from:
Akhand Bharat the undisputed truth, says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat - The Hindu

Pondicherry or Goa? Best places for a graduation trip - Luxebook Pondicherry or Goa? Best places for a graduation trip - Luxebook Jade CrastoFor those who are about to graduate from college or university, your life as a student is about to come to an end, but not the adventures with your friends! The end of college is characterised by farewell parties, poignant lunches, job placements, vows to keep in touch, and a tremendous anticipation of the unknown future, one wonders how to continue without getting to meet that beautiful group of friends every single day. After all, everyones lives are hectic, especially if youre in different parts of the world. If you find yourself in this situation, we recommend that you take advantage of your spare time after graduation to go on one crazy vacation with your besties.PondicherryPhoto Courtesy: PexelsPondicherry (Pudducherry) is a beach-side union territory in Tamil Nadu that can be considered the love child of French and Indian cultures. Pondicherry was a French colony until 1954. Its distinctive charm is now enhanced by the historic Bougainvillea-draped French-style residences, churches, and even recently built French-style stores, brightly coloured cafs, and restaurants. Whether you visit areas like the Rock Beach, Pondicherry Beach, Serenity Beach, or the Botanical Gardens in this French capital of India, you will undoubtedly feel like you are somewhere else. And, in the same vein, the best way to explore Pondicherry is to go to Auroville and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, where people from all over the globe come to seek spirituality with yoga and meditation.GoaPhoto Courtesy: PexelsGoa, the smallest state in India and unlike any other is located on the western coast and is renowned for its unending beaches, fantastic nightlife, diverse seafood, and world-heritage-listed architecture. Goa is the go-to place for youngsters who have just finished their stressful examinations. Head to North Goa, the party hub, where youll find a variety of clubs, restaurants and bars thatll keep you up all night. If you dont want to party and simply wish to unwind and relax, then you must visit the South of Goa which isnt densely populated with tourists. Youll find some of the best beaches and lagoons in the south.KasolPhoto Courtesy: PexelsKasol is a charming Himachal hamlet located on the banks of the Parvati River. Kasol, sometimes dubbed as the Amsterdam of India, is a tourist destination that is quickly gaining popularity as a popular centre for trekkers, hikers and nature enthusiasts. The valley is located 23 km from Bhuntar and near the religious town of Manikaran, making it one of the greatest sites in the nation to sit back and relax while admiring the scenery of snow-capped mountains, pine trees, and tranquil rivers. Kasol is well-known for its hiking paths, including hikes to Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, and Pin Parbati Pass. Visit the village of Malana to get a true sense of the culture in this region. Malana, located a few kilometres from Kasol, is a little town populated by people who reside in self-imposed solitude. Yet, the area has many beautiful attractions and is commonly referred to as Little Greece.AndamanPhoto Courtesy: PexelsAndaman & Nicobar Islands is a small piece of paradise situated roughly 1,400 kilometres away from the east coast of mainland India, complete with turquoise blue ocean beaches and a little of history. Port Blair, the union territorys capital, has a significant airport and seaport that connects it to the rest of the country and several tourist islands by multiple daily ferries. The pristine sandy beaches and good diving opportunities on Havelock and Neil Islands make them popular with vacationers. Havelock Island is the largest and most populous of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The lovely Radhanagar Beach is located on Havelocks southern shore, while the blue splendour of Vijayanagar Beach is located on the islands eastern coast. Neil Islands three sandy beaches, Bharatpur Beach, Sitapur Beach, and Lakshmanpur Beach, are perhaps its most charming characteristic. Three popular beaches for watersports are North Bay Island in Port Blair, Elephant Beach on Havelock Island, and Bharatpur Beach on Neil Island. Elephant beach and Kalapather beach are two additional beaches with spectacular sunrises and sunsets.Mcleodganj, Himachal PradeshPhoto Courtesy: PexelsMcleodganj in Himachal Pradesh is a renowned tourist destination due to its Tibetan culture, nature hikes, greenery, historic temples and monasteries, and British influence. It is located on the outskirts of Dharamshala in the Kangra district. The town, nestled among breathtaking hills and lush vegetation, has one of the most captivating sceneries in the entire state of Himachal Pradesh and draws a large number of tourists throughout the year. The hilly topography with forests of Oak, Rhododendron, andDeodarmakes Mcleodganj a popular trekking destination, with the Triund Trek, Kareri Lake Trek, and Thatharana Trek among the most popular. Dharamsala, Dharamkot, Bhagsu Nag, and Kangra are some of the nearest towns to Mcleodganj. The Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang, where the spiritual head Dalai Lama dwells, are two of Indias most prominent and spiritually significant monasteries.InternationalDubai

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Pondicherry or Goa? Best places for a graduation trip - Luxebook

Mindy Kaling is currently living her best life while on vacation in Hawaii. The Mindy Project star, 43, has been posting tons of amazing fashion inspo from the trip on Instagram, and Mindy even shared the mirror selfie on her Instagram Story where she's posing in an adorable A.L.C. floral two-piece matching set. The cute 'fit was accessorized by her super strong, toned arms and a peek of her abs.

"@halliesand wore this @alc_ltd and I told to her face, 'I'm wearing that on our Hawaii vacation'. And she said sure!" she captioned the pic.

Here's a peek at the selfie, in case you missed her Instagram Story:

Instagram

If you're wondering what Mindy's workouts and wellness routines look like these days, you should know that she is a big fan of walking. She even shared with TODAY that she tries to get out for a walk every day of the week.

Sometimes Ill be like, Well, I have four different times today where I have 10 minutes so lets just walk instead of sitting down and checking Instagram,'" Mindy said. So instead of it being like one chunk of exercise in the beginning of the day or none at all, Im now just deciding that Im going to be a more active person all the time.

Here's Mindy sharing some BTS from one of her recent solo walks in Malibu on Instagram.

When she wants to mix things up, Mindy told Women's Health that she likes to go on a jog or hit some yoga flow in the morning. She also told SELF about her exercise routine: I refuse to let it get monotonous, she said. I do any trendy workout.

For Mindy, that includes vibration plate classes and Pilates reformer classes.

Mindy also explained on TODAY that she has changed the way she approaches exercise over the years. In my 20s, I thought a workout had to be something that was punishing, like 45 minutes of running and you had to hate it the whole time, she said. I dont have that relationship with exercise anymore.

Oh, and Mindy isn't into using a scale. I dont weigh myself. To me, the most amazing thing is that all my clothes kind of fit/ Its so easy to get ready and that's great. I feel happy about that, she told TODAY.

As for her diet, Mindy is big on hydration. She told Women's Health that she drinks 50 ounces of water before 7 a.m. everyday. And she also makes herself a green smoothie that she describes is "basically the equivalent of an enormous salad," made with spinach, banana, kale, lemon, pear, a bit of apple, cucumber, celery, and coconut water or tap water. Lunch is usually a turkey sandwich, a small steak or tandoori chicken that she'll pair with a couple of Indian sides. She keeps it light for dinner, and often opts for fish with a side of grains and veggies.

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Plus, she has a sweet tooth. Mindy told WH that some of her favorite sweets include a handful of chocolate chips or nuts, Australian red licorice (her favorite candy), or gummy worms.

Mindy has previously said she approached award show diets in an unhealthy way, but these days, she's all about moderation. I'm never going stop being a foodie. Im never going be someone who can just have spinach and salmon every day, she shared on TODAY. I just am really for the first time in my life, trying moderation, and I love it."

And, like the relatable queen she is, Mindy loves a good slice of pizza.

So yummy, Mindy!

Emily Shiffer is a former digital web producer for Mens Health and Prevention, and is currently a freelancer writer specializing in health, weight loss, and fitness. She is currently based in Pennsylvania and loves all things antiques, cilantro, and American history.

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Mindy Kaling Flashed A Peek Of Her Toned Abs In A New IG Selfie - Women's Health

TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Apr 5, 2023, 14:00 IST

Apart from the respiratory system, COVID-19 can also impact your heart. Responding to several recent deaths among youngsters in connection with heart attacks, health minister Mansukh Mandaviya told NDTV, "We saw so many young artistes, athletes, sportspersons...they died on stage while performing. We all saw that, and reports started coming in from several places. We needed to investigate."

Mandaviya said the Health Ministry is investigating any possible link with COVID-19. "The government has commissioned research to find the link between the recent spate of heart attacks in young people with Covid, and the results are expected in two-three months," he added.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, COVID-19 can cause temporary or lasting damage to heart tissue due to several factors.

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Coronavirus may infect and damage the hearts muscle tissue directly. It can affect the inner surfaces of veins and arteries, which can lead to blood vessel inflammation. This can damage your vessels and develop blood clots, which can compromise blood flow to your heart and increase risk of heart attack.

Inflammation caused by Coronavirus can cause fluid to fill up in the air sacs in your lungs. This restricts oxygen flow to your bloodstream. The heart is pushed to work harder to pump blood throughout the body, which can be dangerous especially for those who have preexisting heart disease. Overwork or insufficient oxygen can cause cell death and tissue damage in the heart, increasing risk of heart attack.

Viral infections like COVID-19 can cause stress cardiomyopathy a heart muscle disorder that affects the hearts ability to pump blood effectively. When attacked by a virus such as Coronavirus, the body undergoes stress and releases a surge of chemicals called catecholamines, which can stun the heart, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Read more: High cholesterol symptoms: THESE two changes in your hair may be warning signs

In a cytokine storm, your bodys immune system response can cause inflammation that can overwhelm the body, destroying healthy tissue and damaging organs such as the heart. When responding to infections like Coronavirus, your body releases a flood of proteins called cytokines to help cells communicate with one another and fight the invaders, explains Johns Hopkins Medicine. However, in some people, this normal defensive event is exaggerated, leaving them vulnerable to a cytokine storm.

Read more: Age, not weight, identifies diabetes and prediabetes better, finds new US study; know more

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Coronavirus: The recent spate of heart attacks may be linked to COVID-19; Health ministry set to investigate - Times of India

Ragi, jowar, bajra are some of the millets that are garnering a lot of attention these days. However, they are not new to our culture. They are just making a comeback. Benefits of eating milletsFor those who are thinking about making the healthy switch from wheat atta to millets, but are lost on the compelling benefits it offers, Deepali, Dietician at the CK Birla Hospital (R), Delhi shares, Millets, also known as Bajra/Ragi/Jowar in the Indian context, are an important food item. Eating millet daily will provide you with several health benefits. It helps women to fight off heart ailments post-menopause. It could also control high blood pressure and cholesterol level in the body. Those suffering from gallstones should also benefit from it since it contains fiber."Health coach Anupama Menon further adds, Millets are generally high in fiber and gluten free, so it is a good product and addition to the diet of those who are sensitive to gluten. While it works for some, it may not work for others, so if you are trying it for the first time make sure you check for signs of acidity or bloating if you are consuming it on a regular basis. The smaller millet grains are easier to cook and digest, hence if you are just about starting on millets its best to start with grains like Kodo or Banyard before you move onto Jowar or Bajra.Who should be careful with millets?Anupama clarifies, The first mistake people make is to believe that millet will work for everyone across the board. This is not true. Not true in fact of any food. If you are trying millets for the first time, watch and check for how you feel when it is regularly included in your diet - then if it works with your gut, please go ahead and include it in variety in your diet, if it does not minimize its use if you have to use it at all. It uses a lot of water in cooking, hence works best if cooked like a kichadi or even a roti.

You can consume millet at any time of the day, preferably in the morning, at noon and at night. It is best to consume millet in moderate amounts; three or four times a week is ideal. However, it is not recommended for people with hypothyroidism. Anupama shares, People having thyroid disorders should avoid consuming millet because it leads to the enlargement of the thyroid. Too much millet could (could) interfere with the functioning of the thyroid gland. Millets also contain goitrogens that may interfere with the absorption of iodine which could be reduced in the cooking process, yet not negated completely, adds Deepali.

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Dos and donts of eating millets (The best ones to eat in summer) - Times of India